“The physical and emotional scars of domestic violence can cast a long shadow. Too many individuals, regardless of age, ability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, circumstance, or race, face the pain and fear of domestic violence. During National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we shine a light on this violation of the basic human right to be free from violence and abuse, pledge to ensure every victim of domestic violence knows they are not alone, and foster supportive communities that help survivors seek justice and enjoy full and healthy lives…”

Read the full Presidential Proclamation for Domestic Violance Awareness Month 2016 by President Barack Obama, released on September 30, 2016.

What is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM)?

Domestic Violence Awareness Month, otherwise known as DVAM, was first observed in 1987 with three primary goals in mind:

Mourning those who have died because of domestic violence
Celebrating those who have survived
Connecting those who work to end violence

In 1989, the U.S. Congress passed Public Law 101-112 designating October of that year as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Each year, this designation has been affirmed. To learn more, read the Presidential Proclamation for Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2016 and the US Senate Resolution 566: Supporting the Goals & Ideals of National Domestic Violence Awareness Mont h 2016.

Get Involved

To get involved locally at WSU, make sure to check out the WSU Women’s Center Upcoming Events Web Page as well as Coug Health Event Listings. Make sure to keep checking this page as well for campus activities regarding Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

There are many ways to get involved on the web. Share and read DVAM topics on Twitter with #DVAM2016. For additional resources on how to get involved in Washington State, visit the Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence Web Page or check out the web resources listed below.